Traveling to the United States for the 2026 World Cup: what you can and cannot do with your B1/B2 visa
- Jul 1
- 5 min read
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner. From June 11 to July 19, the United States will be one of three host countries along with Canada and Mexico, with 11 U.S. cities hosting matches. If you are thinking about traveling to see a game or simply to visit the country during this historic event, the U.S. government has already issued a warning: if you need a visa and don't have one, NOW is the time to apply.
At RISE Immigration Services, we are not lawyers, but we know how important it is to arrive with the right information. That is why in this article we tell you the essential requirements, what documents you need, the benefit of the FIFA PASS system, and above all: what you can and cannot do if you travel with a tourist visa (B1/B2).
The golden rule: your passport and the 6-month validity requirement
One of the most important requirements that is often overlooked is passport validity. U.S. authorities require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from the country. If you plan to stay until July 20, your passport should be valid at least until January 2027. If your passport is about to expire, renew it before starting the visa application process.
Basic requirements to apply for a B1/B2 visa
To apply for a tourist or business visa, you need to prepare the following documents and meet these requirements according to information from U.S. embassies:
Form DS-160: Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application.
Valid passport: With at least six months of validity beyond your planned departure date.
Recent photo: In color, with a white background, and meeting visa photo standards.
Proof of payment: The application fee for the B1/B2 visa is **$185**. In addition, there is a "visa integrity fee" of $250 for most applicants, which went into effect in fiscal year 2025.
Supporting documents: Proof of ties to your home country (employment, property, family), as well as evidence of sufficient funds to cover your trip and your intention to return.
The World Cup advantage: the FIFA PASS system
If you purchased your tickets directly from FIFA for the 2026 World Cup, you have access to a special benefit: the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS). This system allows you to request a priority appointment for your B1/B2 visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate, as long as you registered for FIFA PASS when purchasing your tickets. This is an excellent opportunity to expedite the process, but remember: the World Cup is close, and wait times may be longer than usual. Apply early.
If you already have a visa: don't forget about EVUS
If you already have a valid B1/B2 visa, check if you need to update your registration in the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) if you are from a Visa Waiver Program country, or EVUS if you are a Chinese citizen with a 10-year visa. All Chinese passport holders who have a 10-year B1/B2 visa must register in the EVUS system before traveling. Failing to do so may prevent you from boarding the plane.
What you CAN do with your B1/B2 visa in the U.S.
Having a B1/B2 visa is not a permit to do whatever you want. It is a travel permit for very specific purposes. Here is what you can do:
Tourism and vacations: Enjoy the World Cup, visit theme parks, explore cities, and sightsee in general.
Visit family or friends: Reunite with your loved ones who live in the U.S.
Temporary business (B-1): Attend business meetings, conferences, conventions, or negotiate contracts, as long as you do not receive payment from a U.S. source for your work and do not perform "hands-on" manual work.
Medical treatment: Have consultations or medical procedures (with prior payment and proper documentation).
What you CANNOT do with your B1/B2 visa
This is where people often get into trouble. If you violate the terms of your visa, you can be deported and banned from future entry. Here is what is prohibited:
Work for a U.S. employer: Whether full-time, part-time, freelance, or contract. Receiving payment from a U.S. company or person is a direct violation.
Enroll in an academic study program: If you want to study at a university or college, you need a student visa (F-1 or M-1), not a B1/B2.
Perform paid professional presentations: You cannot participate as an artist, professional athlete, or musician for compensation.
Live or reside permanently: The B1/B2 is a visitor visa. It is not a gateway to move to the U.S. permanently. Using it for that purpose can result in visa cancellation and a future entry ban.
Birth tourism: Traveling to the U.S. with the primary purpose of giving birth so your child obtains U.S. citizenship is a prohibited activity under the B1/B2 visa.
The problem of overstaying your permitted time
It is very important to understand the difference between the validity of the visa (for example, 10 years) and the amount of time you are allowed to stay on each trip. Even though the visa may be valid for 10 years, upon arrival the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officer grants you a period of stay, generally up to 6 months (180 days).
If you exceed this time, even by one day, your visa is automatically canceled and you face severe penalties. If you overstay more than 180 days but less than a year, you will receive a 3-year reentry bar. If you stay more than a year, the bar will be 10 years.
Tips for a hassle-free trip
Apply early: Consulates may experience higher demand during the World Cup. Start the B1/B2 application process immediately if you do not have a visa.
Check your passport: Make sure it has at least 6 months of validity after your return. Renew if necessary.
Register for EVUS/ESTA: If applicable, do not forget to register before traveling.
Keep your documents handy: Upon arrival, the CBP officer will ask about the purpose of your trip and the duration of your stay. Have your hotel address, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay ready.
Respect the limits: Enjoy the World Cup, but remember you are a temporary visitor. Do not overstay and do not engage in prohibited activities.
Clear information, not legal advice
At RISE Immigration Services, we are not lawyers, but we are here to inform you. This content is a guide based on official announcements and consular practices. For specific advice about your case, always consult with a licensed immigration attorney.
References
U.S. Department of State. U.S. Visa and Travel Information for FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fans.
Embassy of the United States in Guyana. Ask the Consul - February 2026.
Embassy of the United States in Lesotho. Lesotho Visa Use Press Statement.
Embassy of the United States in Uganda. U.S Embassy In Uganda Issues Fresh Guidelines On Visa Rules.
Travel and Tour World. Expert Guide To Official Entry Requirements For 2026 World Cup Matches.
Beyond Border Global. U.S. Visa Types for High-Skilled Professionals: 2026 Guide.
Immigration Vision. USA Visitor Visa Documents List: B1/B2 Checklist (2026).
USAHello. A guide to the U.S. visa: types & requirements.
Tukki. B1/B2 visa - what you can and can't do in the U.S.
Texas State University. B-1/B-2 Visa Waiver.
Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the United States. Chinese Embassy and Consulates in the U.S. Issue Consular Reminders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
China National Radio (CNR). World Cup Approaching: Chinese Embassies and Consulates in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico Issue Travel Reminders.
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